Casablanca: Beyond the Movie
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Casablanca: Beyond the Movie

Karima Benjelloun
February 22, 2025
9 min read
7,100 views
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Casablanca: Beyond the Movie

When most people hear “Casablanca,” they think of the classic Hollywood film. But Morocco’s largest city is so much more than a backdrop for cinema. A hub of business, culture, and architecture, Casablanca (or “Casa” as locals call it) is a **cosmopolitan gateway** where modern Morocco meets French colonial heritage.

Though often overlooked by tourists rushing to Marrakech or Fes, Casablanca rewards those who stop to explore. Here’s your complete guide to discovering Morocco’s economic capital.

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1. Why Visit Casablanca?

  • **Modern Morocco**: Skyscrapers, shopping malls, and international cuisine.
  • **Cultural depth**: Art deco avenues, Islamic architecture, street art.
  • **Food scene**: A paradise for seafood and fusion dining.
  • **Convenience**: Main international airport, direct train connections.

    • Casablanca isn’t as touristy as Marrakech — and that’s part of its charm. It’s Morocco’s “real city,” where tradition and modernity live side by side.

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    2. Top Things to Do in Casablanca

    Hassan II Mosque

  • One of the largest mosques in the world, with the tallest minaret (210m).
  • Built partly over the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Non-Muslims may visit on guided tours — a rare chance to see inside a functioning mosque.

    • The Corniche

  • A seafront promenade lined with cafés, restaurants, and nightclubs.
  • Great for evening walks and ocean views.

    • Old Medina

  • Smaller than Marrakech or Fes, but atmospheric.
  • Local markets with clothes, crafts, and spices.

    • Art Deco Architecture

  • Explore **Boulevard Mohammed V** and the downtown area.
  • Look for faded French-era buildings with balconies and mosaics.

    • Quartier Habous (New Medina)

  • Built by the French in the 1930s but designed in traditional Moroccan style.
  • Great for bookshops, handicrafts, and pastries.

    • Rick’s Café

  • A homage to the 1942 film *Casablanca*.
  • Jazz, cocktails, and Moroccan fusion dishes in a romantic setting.

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    3. Food & Dining in Casablanca

    Casablanca is Morocco’s **culinary capital** for seafood and international dining.

  • **La Sqala**: Moroccan classics in a garden near the medina.
  • **Le Cabestan**: Upscale seafood restaurant overlooking the Atlantic.
  • **Rick’s Café**: Tourist favorite, but fun.
  • **Street food**: Try sardine sandwiches, fried fish, and msemen (flatbread).

    • **Pro Tip**: Casablanca is the best place in Morocco for sushi, fusion cuisine, and French pastries.

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    4. Nightlife & Entertainment

  • Casablanca has Morocco’s most vibrant nightlife.
  • Rooftop bars, nightclubs, and live music along the Corniche.
  • Luxury hotels often host DJ nights and cultural events.

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    5. Where to Stay

  • **Luxury**: Four Seasons, Hyatt Regency, Le Casablanca Hotel.
  • **Mid-range**: Hotel Central (near Old Medina), Kenzi Tower.
  • **Budget**: Hostels are fewer, but guesthouses exist in Habous and Ain Diab areas.

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    6. Shopping in Casablanca

  • **Morocco Mall**: Africa’s largest shopping center.
  • **Anfa Place Mall**: Beachfront shopping with cafés.
  • **Souks in Habous**: Better for traditional handicrafts and books.

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    7. Day Trips from Casablanca

  • **Rabat** (1 hour by train): Morocco’s capital with gardens, palaces, and calm medina.
  • **El Jadida** (1.5 hours): Portuguese fortress town and beach.
  • **Azemmour** (1 hour): Artistic riverside town.

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    8. Practical Tips

  • Casablanca’s **tramway** makes transport easy and cheap.
  • The airport train connects directly to Casa Voyageurs station.
  • Traffic is heavy; taxis are plentiful but insist on the meter.
  • Dress code is modern, but modesty still appreciated.

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    9. How Long to Stay?

  • **1 day**: Hassan II Mosque + Corniche + quick medina walk.
  • **2–3 days**: Deeper dive into art deco heritage, shopping, and nightlife.

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    10. Final Thoughts

    Casablanca may not have Marrakech’s chaos or Chefchaouen’s charm, but it offers something different: a glimpse into **modern Moroccan life**. With its art deco streets, world-class dining, and Atlantic views, it’s a city that grows on you the longer you stay.

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    Related Posts

  • [Marrakech vs. Fes: Which City Should You Visit First?](/marrakech-vs-fes)
  • [The 10 Best Festivals in Morocco](/morocco-festivals-guide)
  • [Exploring the Atlas Mountains](/atlas-mountains-guide)

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    Tags

    CasablancaCity LifeArchitectureMorocco

    About the Author

    KB

    Karima Benjelloun

    Travel writer and Morocco expert with over 10 years of experience exploring North Africa.

    Quick Stats

    Reading Time:9 min read
    Views:7,100
    Published:February 22, 2025
    Category:City Guides

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